Gov. John Baldacci, D-Maine, and New Brunswick Premier Shawn Graham will work together to explore the development of a Northeast Energy Corridor.

In addition, Irving Oil is conducting commercial and technical feasibility on the first phase of development of the Northeast Energy Corridor, which could include 1,200 MW to 1,500 MW of electrical transmission capability.

The improved transmission capability, along with the potential for increased natural gas co-generation, would make it possible to develop more wind power in Maine and New Brunswick.

The Northeast Energy Corridor would support the development of diverse energy sources in both jurisdictions for use in the region and in the Northeast U.S. If implemented, it would connect Canada and the U.S., crossing from New Brunswick into Maine, and would deliver a diverse portfolio of energy products from Maine and New Brunswick to the Northeast in the most economically and environmentally efficient way.

The corridor would provide reliable and secure access for electricity, with an emphasis on renewable power, including wind and tidal, as well as natural-gas-fired co-generation. Baldacci has outlined a process by which the state will pursue the exploratory phase on the Maine side of the border.